The decision was sparked by incidents where insults were directed at some of the airmen and women.

But Mr Brown insisted that the armed forces should be proud of their work in the controversial Iraq and Afghanistan campaigns, and called on the police to ensure they received "respect".

"All our armed forces should be able to, and encouraged to, wear their uniform in public and have the respect and gratitude of the British people for the huge commitment to public service they show," Mr Brown told reporters in Number 10.

"I encourage the local police to back up our armed forces so that not only can our armed forces wear their uniforms in public, but they should have the gratitude of the British public for the work they do."

Mr Brown went on: "I believe the great majority of the British public would condemn any form of abuse.

"I condemn absolutely any members of the public who show abuse or discrimination to our armed forces. "

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said the decision at RAF Wittering was a local one made by station commanders.

Defence Secretary Des Browne described the situation as a "great shame", adding: "We must defend our forces' right to wear their uniforms in public."